Backyard Beekeeping Questions and Answers Episode 227, should we be open feeding or putting out robbing stations? Things to consider.

This is the audio from today's YouTube Video:  https://youtu.be/hxfze-BIFLg

 

Topics and time-stamps are generously provided by Adam Holmes -

1) Please stop promoting open feeding and robbing. Lots of negatives. 5:16

 

2) I have a question about my winter feeding setup. Would it be better to have the fondant patty above the insulated inner cover? Could I perhaps double up the fondant patties under the cover to make sure they don't run out? 25:08

 

3) Can I take frames of honey to boost another hive that doesn't have as many stores? I also plan to feed fondant and sugar patties. 35:07

 

4) I have been thinking about insulating my hive with 2 inch foam insulation and making a five-sided box. Do you think it would be a too sealed and they wouldn't get enough fresh air? 40:23

 

5) I did a series of OAV treatments and then could not find my queen. I tried to install a new queen and they rejected her. A friend said the hive wasn't likely queenless. I doubt the new nucleus can make it through winter after making a split. What are your thoughts? 47:27

 

6) I have the new insulated inner covers. They have holes around the edges. What is the reason for this, could other things make their way in? 56:21

 

7) New research has shown that certain mushroom species may be effective against varroa mites. Have you have researched this topic? 58:47

 

8) Is it possible to over feed bees for bees? 1:01:26

 

(apologies, question 9 was missed)

 

10) I remember you talking about using Bleach solution to spray your drawn frames for winter storage. Has that fallen out of favor? Do you stack supers tight, or alternate them at 90 degree angles? 1:14:25

 

11) I'm trying to make a decision about feeding hives in October. I am a backyard beekeeper with 5 colonies. 1:18:26